Tanzania is intensifying efforts to accelerate the implementation of its National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy 2024–2034, as stakeholders call for stronger partnerships, improved policies and increased investment to ensure more citizens access affordable and sustainable cooking solutions.
The call was made during a special dialogue held in Dar es Salaam on August 6, 2026, bringing together key players in the clean cooking sector, including government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations, manufacturers and suppliers of clean cooking technologies.
The meeting was organised by the Tanzania Renewable Energy Association (TAREA) and the African Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, with the aim of reviewing progress made in implementing the national strategy and identifying measures to speed up its delivery.
Discussions focused on policy and regulatory issues affecting the sector, including taxation, access to finance, local production of clean cooking technologies and the role of the private sector in expanding clean energy solutions.
Participants also examined broader issues linked to sustainable energy development, including forest conservation, responsible use of biomass energy and the contribution of local government authorities in promoting clean cooking initiatives.
The dialogue is expected to produce practical recommendations that will guide stakeholders on specific actions, responsible institutions and timelines to improve implementation of the strategy.
Speaking at the event, Head of the Clean Cooking Energy Unit at the Ministry of Energy, Mr Nolasco Mlay, said Tanzania’s commitment to clean cooking has gained momentum under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who serves as Africa’s Clean Cooking Champion.
Mr Mlay said the government is working with different stakeholders to ensure clean cooking solutions become more accessible to households while supporting environmental conservation and improving citizens’ welfare.
“Strengthening cooperation among government, development partners and the private sector is essential to ensure the clean cooking agenda delivers meaningful results for Tanzanians,” he said.
He added that the dialogue provides an important platform for aligning efforts with the country’s clean cooking targets and addressing barriers that could slow implementation.
TAREA Chairman Dr Prosper Magali said although Tanzania has made progress, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring the availability of quality clean cooking technologies and securing adequate financial resources for sector growth.
He called for continued collaboration among stakeholders to improve the implementation framework and create an enabling environment for innovation and investment in clean cooking solutions.
The National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy 2024–2034 is aimed at increasing access to clean cooking technologies, reducing dependence on traditional fuels, protecting the environment and improving health outcomes for millions of Tanzanian households.
